Why Advice From a Criminal Defense Attorney Matters After an Arrest
Getting arrested can be confusing, stressful, and overwhelming all at once. Many people don’t realize that what they do in the first hours and days after an arrest can impact the outcome of their entire case. That’s why speaking with an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately is essential. In Reno and throughout Nevada, a criminal defense attorney Reno NV can help protect your rights, prevent costly missteps, and develop a defense strategy that fits your situation. Here’s what everyone should know to avoid serious mistakes that could jeopardize their future.
Fun Fact: Even if charges are dropped, the arrest record can still show up in background checks unless it is formally sealed by the court.
Mistake #1 – Talking to Police Without a Criminal Defense Attorney
One of the biggest mistakes people make is agreeing to answer police questions without a lawyer present. Although it can feel natural to try to explain what happened, anything said to law enforcement can and will be used in court.
Fun Fact: According to the American Civil Liberties Union, nearly 80% of suspects waive their Miranda rights and agree to talk without an attorney—often because they feel pressured or don’t realize the consequences.
A criminal defense attorney Reno NV can advise exactly when to speak and when it’s better to remain silent. This helps avoid misunderstandings, accidental admissions, and statements taken out of context.
Mistake #2 – Posting About the Arrest on Social Media
It’s tempting to go online and share details with friends or vent frustrations. However, posting about an arrest or the circumstances around it can seriously damage a case.
Fun Fact: Studies show that over 50% of criminal cases now include evidence pulled from social media posts, photos, or location check-ins. Even deleted posts can often be recovered and used in court.
A criminal defense attorney will always recommend staying off social media and keeping case information private. What seems like an innocent comment or photo can quickly become a problem.
Mistake #3 – Missing Court Dates or Deadlines
After an arrest, there are specific deadlines and court appearances that must be met. Missing even one can lead to extra charges, arrest warrants, or revoked bail.
Fun Fact: In Nevada, missing a court date—even by accident—can result in an immediate bench warrant and often causes bail money to be forfeited.
Working with a criminal defense attorney Reno NV ensures all paperwork is filed correctly and every court date is tracked. Staying organized demonstrates responsibility, which can influence how a judge views a case.
Mistake #4 – Contacting Alleged Victims or Witnesses
Another common error is trying to reach out to alleged victims or witnesses to “clear things up.” Even if the intention is good, any contact can be interpreted as intimidation or tampering.
Fun Fact: Contacting a witness or alleged victim can lead to new charges, such as witness tampering, which carries penalties of up to 4 years in prison under Nevada law.
A criminal defense attorney can communicate with all relevant parties on your behalf and protect you from further complications.
Mistake #5 – Assuming All Lawyers Are the Same
Not all legal representation is created equal. Some people think any attorney can handle criminal charges, but experience and focus areas matter.
Fun Fact: In Reno, many criminal defense attorneys focus specifically on certain types of cases—like DUI defense, drug crimes, or white-collar offenses—to provide more effective representation.
A dedicated criminal defense attorney Reno NV understands local laws, court procedures, and the strategies that work best in Washoe County. Choosing the right professional can mean the difference between a reduced charge, a dismissed case, or a conviction.
Take Control With Help From a Criminal Defense Attorney Reno NV
Facing criminal charges doesn’t have to mean facing them alone. By avoiding these common mistakes and working with a trusted criminal defense attorney, it’s possible to protect your rights and build a strong defense from the very start.
For personalized guidance and experienced representation, contact Richard P. Davies Law today. The team is ready to help you navigate the legal process with confidence and skill.